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After CNA Training: The Differences Between Home Health Aides and CNAs

At first, it may be difficult to understand the differences between a Home Health Aide and a CNA after you complete CNA training. After all, if you work in Home Health after CNA training, you will work with these aides almost every day and will do much of the same work they are required to do. If you look closely, however, you will see that the lines between these two professions are clearly defined.

While many home health agencies use those who have completed CNA training as home health aides because state laws allow them to perform more duties in the home, there is a gap between the two professions. If you are unsure of what it is, we are here to help.

After CNA Training: Defining Home Health Aides

Home health aides are responsible for many patient care duties in the home, including:

Bathing

Cooking

Light Housekeeping

Running Errands

Companionship

Grooming

Dressing

While many of these duties are the same as those of an individual who has completed CNA training, there is one big difference: home health aides do not undergo CNA training. They are instead trained by the home health agency they work for and are only required to obtain their CPR certification before they begin working.

Home health aides, are, however, required to know and understand the laws in their states regarding patient care, right, and HIPPA. They are held to the same standards as those who have completed CNA training, so understanding how the law wants them to care for patients and work within the home is essential.

After CNA Training: CNA Responsibilities in Home Health

In many states, CNAs are hired by home health agencies to work in patients’ homes to bridget the gap between home health aides and nurses. If they work with home health aides, they generally do so in an effort to teach the aide new thing while the aide is taking CNA training classes.

Most of the time, CNAs are responsible for the following duties while they are working for a home health agency:

While some duties are the same as home health aides, CNAs perform more of the technical aspects of the job and have a bit more responsibility when it comes to patient care.

Pay Differences Between Those Who Have Completed CNA Training and Home Health Aides

According to Payscale.com, CNAs can expect to earn an average of $8.42 to $14.21 an hour, depending on experience, continued CNA training, and location. A home health aide, however, generally makes a bit less, between $7.73 to $14.23 per hour. Both can increase their pay by obtaining further education, additional certifications, and by increasing their experience on the job.

If you are trying to decide between becoming a home health aide or taking CNA training, stop to consider what the difference between these two occupations are. While they are slight, you may want to consider the advantages and responsibilities you can obtain by taking CNA training.